Evora to Ronda

Spectacularly positioned on a rocky plateau, Ronda is one of Spain’s most scenic, and oldest, towns.

From Evora Bursting with History

Inside the 14th-century walls, the narrow, winding streets take visitors past the ancient city’s striking architectural works. The elaborate medieval cathedral and cloisters, 17th century bone chapel, and ancient columns of the Templo Romano and Roman baths are all protected in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. While admiring the picturesque town square, you’d never suspect it was once the site of some rather gruesome scenes courtesy of the Inquisition. The Chapel of Bones, filled with the remains of 5000 bodies, is a 16th century monument made to give people a peaceful place to reflect on life and death. With such a long history in a limited space, it’s easy to walk between examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture in one of the most-livable cities in Portugal.

Merida

Zafra

Archaeological Ensemble of Italica

Zahara de la Sierra

Setenil de las Bodegas

To Ronda Unforgettable Drama

Settled in the 9th century BC, Ronda was officially named at city under the reign of Julius Caesar. The scenic setting, and many landmarks made the town popular with the Romantics, attracting the likes of Alexandre Dumas, Ernest Hemingway, and Orson Welles. The 18th century ‘New Bridge’ straddles a 100 meter ravine, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. In the city proper, visitors can find one of the country’s oldest bull-fighting rings. The Mondragon palace was originally built in 1314 by the Moorish King Abomelik, and later used as the primary residence for Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand. Here, a fascinating museum is devoted to Ronda’s rich history houses Roman and Moorish tombs. For a unique view of the city, the stunning Cuenca Gardens follow a series of terraces on the ledges of the Tajo river.